Tongan Prime Minister responds to Fiji government

Tongan Prime Minister responds to Fiji government

I wish to add my support to the sentiments of friendship and general good wishes contained in the Commodore’s statement but wish to make certain points clear. Fiji’s domestic affairs are her own and His Majesty’s Government has no interest in bringing undue influence.

The right of audience in His Majesty’s Courts without political interference has been a cornerstone of the King’s Peace for over 100 years and there are proper procedures and obligations governing applications for Extradition Orders.

There shall be no obstacle placed before the Fijian Government’s Representatives in Court nor should the accused be denied counsel and the right to reply.

The dignity of Tongan Justice is preserved through Judicial Restraint therefore the discredited indulgence of Judicial Activism which is prevalent in the Courts of some Dominions and Republics is an affront to our Constitution.

It follows therefore, that Tongan Judges are not subject to influence from either the King or His Ministers nor are they encouraged to pass judgments according to their political beliefs.

It is an offensive breach of protocol purposely to infer, for political gain, His Majesty’s offer of hospitality to his kinsman Ratu Tevita Uluilakeba as an offer of immunity.

Lord Tu’ivakano
PRIME MINISTER
Government of Tonga
16th May, 2011, 11.30AM

ENDS.

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